[Auto]Mercedes-Benz GLA, arrives in Colombia with comprehensive renovation

[Ronaldskk.]

                                                                        

It was in 2014 when the Mercedes-Benz GLA was presented with great fanfare, then with an urban focus and a proposal more oriented towards the crossover universe. That pickup was the only model of the manufacturer's new generation of compact cars (NGCC) that had yet to be revamped, with the A-Class being the first to feature this new sleek and aggressive design language. One million units globally of the first generation GLA and more than three thousand units circulating in the country since its arrival, demonstrate the good acceptance of the proposal, but it was evident that the model had to be tuned and scale to be at the level of his brothers, as well as having more arguments to compete in an increasingly hostile environment, where there are serious rivals, such as the BMW X1, Audi Q2 or Volvo XC40. What is the novelty?

The second generation Mercedes-Benz GLA is presented in Colombia, which, for now, arrives in our country in a single configuration: GLA 200 AMG Line; This is the third launch by Mercedes-Benz in the country during this difficult year. The three pillars that support the essence of this SUV are versatility, technology and design.

ercedes-Benz GLA: design and dimensions The new Mercedes-Benz pickup, which is made in Germany, has grown in dynamic proportions and attributes, making it look more imposing and capable. These are some of the novelties in this section: Like the rest of the models that adopt the AMG kit, it has a diamond-effect grille. The strong lines offer a visually and physically more robust set, highlighting the shoulders of the bodywork and the coupe-like line of the side windows. Front and rear the light units are high performance LED type, he also changed the 18 "wheels of the previous version for 19" ones; It includes a diffuser at the back and has two sporty tailpipes. At the rear, the lights are made up of two elements, while the reflectors were moved lower and located on the bumper, allowing more room across the width for cargo space. While looking bigger at 4,424mm, the new GLA is now 14mm shorter than the old one, but is 30mm wider (1,834mm), 104mm taller (1,611mm) and has 30mm more distance between axles (2,729 mm). The cargo area also grew and now its volume is 435 liters, 14 liters more than that of the previous generation. An important detail is that I increased the clearance height with respect to the ground, it was 143 millimeters (9 mm than the previous model). Its aerodynamic coefficient is 0.28 Cx, compared to the 0.32 Cx registered in the first generation.

Mercedes-Benz GLA: interior and equipment The interior also evolved favorably and adopts many of the resources that we already know in its larger range brothers. The dashboard was completely renovated and now includes two 10.25 ”screens, one for the instrument panel; Another important novelty is the presence of the MBUX infotainment system, which can be configured individually with the help of different options. The system features a high-performance processor, customizable display, software with learning functions, and a voice control system that is activated with the "Hey, Mercedes" keyword. It has up to 64 shades to customize the lighting of the cabin, four display styles, dual zone climate control system, touch panel without controller, aluminum pedals, sport steering wheel, keyless access, active parking aid, 180 ° reverse camera, paddles change on the steering wheel and panoramic roof, which covers more than 80% of the available area, among others. Mercedes-Benz GLA: mechanical details The only version of the GLA available in Colombia is driven by the management of a renewed 1,332 cc four-cylinder petrol engine, which, according to the brand, has better specific performance, higher efficiency and lower emissions. It generates 161 hp of power and 250 Nm of torque. It is complemented by a new generation seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7G-DCT), which is lighter than the previous one. Weighing in at 1,485 kilos, this pickup offers a favorable power-to-weight ratio of 9.2 kilos per horse. The new GLA accelerates from standstill in 8.7 seconds and develops a top speed of 210 km / h. Another particular detail is the inclusion of a direct steering scheme, which provides specific advantages in curves, by systematically orienting itself by turning the steering wheel. Likewise, it has interesting safety features, such as the active braking assistant, which in some situations manages autonomous braking to avoid a collision or, at least, to reduce its severity. The entry-level model to the Mercedes-Benz SUV family is available with a launch price of $ 156,900,000; It is offered with a five-year or 100,000-kilometer warranty. Next year the possibility of bringing the GLA 35 version is being studied.